The dynamic science and research landscape in Germany forms an integral part of the country’s robust economy. Science and technology partnerships have enriched Germany’s relationship with India since the 1950s. Based on joint agreements signed in 1971 and 1974, this collaboration continues to create the technologies of tomorrow.

SCIENCE CIRCLE LECTURE

With a view to further promote Indo-German scientific cooperation, the German Embassy New Delhi and the consulates in India, in collaboration with DWIH, created a platform for German scientists to share their latest research findings with their Indian counterparts. The first Science Circle Lecture, held in 2004, marked the beginning of this lecture series on recent developments in science and technology.

SATELLITE BLAST-OFF

In June 2016, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched the PSLV-C34, which placed 20 satellites in space, including the BIROS from Germany. The German satellite detects temperature changes and hot spots such as bush fires. Scientists from the German Space Agency (DLR) commended ISRO for its precision and meticulous launch.

PRINTED SOLAR CELLS

This one-of-a-kind invention consisting of 588 printed solar modules displayed in the form of a solar tree was presented at the HANNOVER MESSE 2015. Yes, the polymer solar cells were not constructed; they were printed! Researchers at IIT Kanpur modelled and inspected the individual layers before the solar tree made its way to Germany.

INDIA’S MOONWALK

India’s first mission to the moon, Chandrayaan-1, successfully launched in October 2008 with scientific contribution from Germany. The Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research provided SIR-2, a near infrared spectrometer built for remote sensing of the lunar surface.

GALACTIC ALLIANCES

India and Germany are not only partners on earth, but also in space! Bengaluru-based Dhruva Space and the startup Berlin Space Technologies have entered into a collaboration to set up India’s first commercial small satellite manufacturing facility.

TOOT! TOOT! ALL ABOARD THE SCIENCE EXPRESS!

Imagine an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge science and technology on a train in India. That’s the Science Express for you! This prestigious Indo-German project was flagged off by German Chancellor Dr Angela Merkel and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in 2007. Since then the Science Express has stopped at numerous Indian towns and cities and has covered over 1,22,000km, giving more than 133 crore visitors an opportunity to experience the interactive exhibits. The result: absolute enthusiasm and great learnings on both sides. During its eighth voyage in 2015, this Indo-German train was renamed the Science Express Climate Action Special. It travelled across the country for seven months, halting at 64 locations in 20 states. Now this calls for tooting one’s own horn!